Health insurance is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. There are many different factors that affect insurance costs, and some of the most important ones are actually in your control. Understanding these factors can help you attain a more reasonable price for your insurance coverage. 

5 Factors That Impact Health Insurance

1. Where You Live

Insurance premiums are largely based on risk. People who live in the same area will likely share a similar level of risk due to the similarity of their environments. As a result, your insurance company may use demographic statistics to determine the cost. While more personalized factors also apply, you should be aware of how the area in which you live affects your insurance costs. 

2. Whether You Smoke

It’s no secret that smokers are at a higher risk of contracting certain diseases and conditions. This includes lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke, all of which require extensive medical care to treat. If you smoke, be prepared for a higher premium than someone who abstains. 

3. Your Age

The younger you are when you sign up for health insurance, the lower the cost will be. Older people often require more medical treatments throughout their lives, and they’re also more susceptible to certain health conditions and illnesses. Prescription medications can also increase insurance expenses, and older people are more likely to take them. 

4. Your Weight

Much like smoking, being overweight or obese is associated with a greater risk of illness. That’s why insurers will look at your body mass index (BMI), as those with higher BMIs are more likely to experience diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. 

5. Preexisting Conditions

It naturally costs more to insure a person with an existing medical condition than it does to cover a person in relatively good health. In fact, some conditions can make it difficult to obtain health insurance at all. This is another reason to sign up for health insurance as early as possible. 

If you have questions about health insurance coverage in Rising Sun, MD, Crothers Insurance Agency is here to provide answers. As a locally-owned and -operated insurance company, they’re invested in helping their clients find quality products. They also work with many reliable carriers, which means they can help you find an affordable product that also offers sufficient protection. Along with health coverage, they also provide life, auto, and business insurance. Take advantage of more than eight decades of experience by calling (410) 658-5200 today. You can also visit the website for more information.